Positioning and stabilising structure and system incorporating same

ABSTRACT

A head-mounted display system includes a head-mounted display unit and a positioning and stabilising structure structured and arranged to hold the head-mounted display unit in an operational position over a user&#39;s face in use. The positioning and stabilising structure includes a rear support structure adapted to contact posterior regions of a user&#39;s head and a forehead support connector, which includes a forehead support strap, which extends generally along and in the direction of the sagittal plane and connects the rear support structure to a superior edge region of the head-mounted display unit. The forehead support connector further includes a forehead support rigidiser that provides rigidification to a portion of the forehead support connector.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.17/540,358, filed Dec. 2, 2021, which is a continuation of U.S.application Ser. No. 16/865,480, filed May 4, 2020, now U.S. Pat. No.11,243,405, which claims the benefit of Australian ProvisionalApplication No. 2020900953, filed Mar. 27, 2020, each of which isincorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains materialwhich is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has noobjection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent documentor the patent disclosure, as it appears in Patent Office patent files orrecords, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

FIELD OF THE TECHNOLOGY

The present technology relates to a positioning and stabilisingstructure to hold a head-mounted display unit and an associatedhead-mounted display assembly including a display unit and positioningand stabilising structure. The present technology finds particularapplication in the use of virtual reality head-mounted displays and isherein described in that context. However, it is to be appreciated thatthe present technology may have broader application and may be used inother head-mounted display arrangements including augmented realitydisplays.

BACKGROUND OF THE TECHNOLOGY

It is to be understood that, if any prior art is referred to herein,such reference does not constitute an admission that the prior art formsa part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or anyother country.

Virtual reality head-mounted displays enable a user to have a fullyimmersive experience of a virtual environment and have broad applicationin fields such as communications, training, medical and surgicalpractice, engineering and video gaming.

Virtual reality head-mounted displays typically are provided as a systemor assembly that includes a display unit which is arranged to be held inan operational position in front of a user's face. The display unittypically includes a housing containing a display and a user interfacestructure constructed and arranged to be in opposing relation with theuser's face. The user interface structure may extend about the displayand define a viewing opening to the display. The user interfacestructure may engage with the user's face and include a cushion for usercomfort and/or be light sealing to cut ambient light from the display.

To hold the display unit in its correct operational position, thehead-mounted display system further comprises a positioning andstabilising structure that is disposed on the user's head. In the past,these positioning and stabilising structures have been formed fromstraps or expandible rigid structures that are typically applied to theuser's head under tension to maintain the display unit in itsoperational position. Such systems have been prone to exert a clampingpressure on the user's face which can result in user discomfort atlocalised stress points. Also, previous systems may be difficult toadjust to allow wide application head sizes. Further, the display unitand associated positioning and stabilising structure are often heavy anddifficult to clean, which further limit the comfort and usability of thesystem.

Thus, there is a need for an improved system that does not suffer fromthe above-mentioned drawbacks.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE TECHNOLOGY

An aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning andstabilising structure for a head-mounted display unit including a rearsupport structure arranged, in use, to contact regions of the user'shead, and opposing temporal connectors that are disposed on opposingsides of the user's head in use, and extending along the temporalregions of the user's head in use, to interconnect the rear supportstructure to the display unit.

In some forms, the rear support structure includes a hoop having anoccipital portion and a parietal portion. In some forms, the hoop or atleast one of the occipital and parietal portions may be resilientlyextensible along at least a portion of its length. In some forms, thehoop is flexible along at least a portion of its length. In some forms,where the rear support structure is a hoop, the occipital portion mayextend low on the user's head such that it resists upward movement (as aresult of its location in contact with the occipital region of the head)and as such provides an anchor for the system. In some forms, the hoopis orientated in a generally upright plane (such upright planeincluding, as an example, the coronal plane).

In some forms, the rear support structure is disposed posterior to theotobasion superior of the user.

In some forms, the temporal connectors are rigid along at least aportion of their length. In some forms, the temporal connectors eachcomprise a temporal arm having an anterior end connected to the displayunit and a posterior end connected to the rear support structure. Insome forms, the temporal arm is rigid. In some forms, the posterior endof the temporal arm is disposed posterior to the otobasion superior ofthe user.

In some forms, at least one of the temporal connectors further comprisesan adjustment mechanism for adjustment of the positioning andstabilising structure to fit different size heads. In some forms, theadjustment mechanism is disposed at the connection between the posteriorend of the temporal arm and the rear support structure.

In some forms, the rear support structure comprises a connection tabthat connects to the temporal arm, and the adjustment mechanism allowsfor adjustment of the effective length of the connection tab. In someforms, a posterior end of the temporal arm incorporates an eyelet thatis arranged to receive the connection tab, the adjustment mechanismcomprising a releasable fastening arrangement to fasten the connectiontab to the temporal arm. In some forms, the releasable fasteningarrangement may be arranged to secure a free end of the connection tabback onto a proximal portion of the connection tab. The releasablefastening arrangement may take other forms, such as clips or retainersthat allow a friction, interference, snap or other mechanical fixingarrangement.

In some forms, the positioning and stabilising structure may furtherinclude a forehead support connector that extends generally in thedirection of the sagittal plane and connects the rear support structureto a superior edge region of the display unit. In some forms, theforehead support connector may comprise a strap. In some forms, thestrap of the forehead support connector may be resiliently extensiblealong at least a portion of its length. In some forms, the strap of theforehead support connector may be flexible along at least a portion ofits length.

In some forms, the forehead support connector may further include anadjustment mechanism for adjustment of the positioning and stabilisingstructure to fit different size heads. In some forms, the adjustmentmechanism may adjust the effective length of the strap of the foreheadsupport connector when the forehead support connector is in that form.

In some forms, the forehead support connector further comprises aforehead support rigidiser that provides rigidification to a portion ofthe forehead support connector. In some forms, the forehead supportrigidiser provides rigidification to a portion of the forehead supportconnector located along the frontal region of the user's head. Theextent and positioning of the forehead support rigidiser may assist incorrect positioning of the display unit and relieve pressure beingapplied to the zygomatic bone of the user. In some forms, the foreheadsupport rigidiser may be adjustable (angularly or translational) onother components of the forehead support connector, such as the strap ofthe forehead support connector, to allow fine positioning of thehead-mounted display unit and assist in improving user comfort and fit.

In some forms, the positioning and stabilising structure furtherincludes additional rigidisers which may bridge the rear supportstructure and the temporal connectors. In some forms, these additionalrigidisers may assist in controlling the movement of the display unitabout the rear support structure to further stabilise and support thesystem. In some forms, these additional rigidisers may limit hingingmovement at the connection of the temporal connectors to the rearsupport structure. In some forms, these additional rigidisers may alsoextend through along the occipital region of the rear support structureto further anchor the display unit in its correct operational position.In some forms, these additional rigidisers may be adjustable (angularlyor translational) on other components of the forehead support connectorto further assist in comfort, adjustability, and fit.

In some forms, the positioning and stabilising structure may allow forupward, e.g., superior, pivoting movement of the display unit to allowfor movement of the display unit to a non-operational position withoutremoval of the positional and stabilising structure (e.g., flip-upversion). In some forms, this pivoting arrangement may provide a releasemechanism at the forehead support connector and/or provide limitedhinging regions at the temporal connectors.

The positioning and stabilising structure in any form described abovemay be incorporated in a hood or other head wear either integratedtherein or releasably connected thereto. The positional and stabilisingstructure may also include other components integrated therein such asaudio, tactile (haptic) stimulation or feedback.

An aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted displaysystem including a head-mounted display unit and a positioning andstabilising structure structured and arranged to hold the head-mounteddisplay unit in an operational position over a user's face in use. Thepositioning and stabilising structure includes a rear support structureadapted to contact posterior regions of a user's head and at least oneconnector structured and arranged to interconnect the rear supportstructure to the head-mounted display unit. The rear support structureis in the form of a hoop comprising an occipital portion configured andarranged engage the user's head along the occipital bone (e.g., along aportion of the occipital bone adjacent a junction where the neck musclesattach to the occipital bone) in use.

An aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning andstabilising structure to hold a head-mounted display unit in anoperational position over a user's face. The positioning and stabilisingstructure includes a rear support structure adapted to contact posteriorregions of a user's head and at least one connector structured andarranged to interconnect the rear support structure to the head-mounteddisplay unit. The rear support structure is in the form of a hoopcomprising an occipital portion configured and arranged engage theuser's head along the occipital bone (e.g., along a portion of theoccipital bone adjacent a junction where the neck muscles attach to theoccipital bone) in use.

An aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning andstabilising structure to hold a head-mounted display unit in anoperational position over a user's face. The positioning and stabilisingstructure includes a rear support structure adapted to contact posteriorregions of a user's head and opposing temporal connectors structured andarranged to interconnect the rear support structure to the head-mounteddisplay unit. The opposing temporal connectors are adapted to bedisposed on opposing sides of the user's head and extend along thetemporal regions of the user's head. The rear support structure is inthe form of a hoop comprising an occipital portion configured andarranged engage the user's head along the occipital bone (e.g., along aportion of the occipital bone adjacent a junction where the neck musclesattach to the occipital bone) in use.

An aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted displaysystem including a head-mounted display unit and a positioning andstabilising structure structured and arranged to hold the head-mounteddisplay unit in an operational position over a user's face in use. Thepositioning and stabilising structure includes a rear support structureadapted to contact posterior regions of a user's head and at least oneconnector structured and arranged to interconnect the rear supportstructure to the head-mounted display unit. At least the rear supportstructure comprises a textile material configured to conform to theposterior regions of the user's head.

An aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning andstabilising structure to hold a head-mounted display unit in anoperational position over a user's face. The positioning and stabilisingstructure includes a rear support structure adapted to contact posteriorregions of a user's head and at least one connector structured andarranged to interconnect the rear support structure to the head-mounteddisplay unit. At least the rear support structure comprises a textilematerial configured to conform to the posterior regions of a user'shead.

An aspect of the present technology relates to a head-mounted displaysystem including a head-mounted display unit and a positioning andstabilising structure structured and arranged to hold the head-mounteddisplay unit in an operational position over a user's face in use. Thepositioning and stabilising structure includes a rear support structureadapted to contact posterior regions of a user's head and opposingtemporal connectors structured and arranged to interconnect the rearsupport structure to the head-mounted display unit, the opposingtemporal connectors adapted to be disposed on opposing sides of theuser's head and extend along the temporal regions of the user's head. Atleast the rear support structure comprises a textile material configuredto conform to the posterior regions of the user's head.

An aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning andstabilising structure to hold a head-mounted display unit in anoperational position over a user's face. The positioning and stabilisingstructure includes a rear support structure adapted to contact posteriorregions of a user's head and opposing temporal connectors structured andarranged to interconnect the rear support structure to the head-mounteddisplay unit, the opposing temporal connectors adapted to be disposed onopposing sides of the user's head and extend along the temporal regionsof the user's head. At least the rear support structure comprises atextile material configured to conform to the posterior regions of theuser's head.

An aspect of the present technology relates to a positioning andstabilising structure to hold a head-mounted display unit in anoperational position over a user's face. The positioning and stabilisingstructure includes a rear support structure adapted to contact regionsof a user's head and at least one connector or strap structured andarranged to interconnect the rear support structure to the head-mounteddisplay unit.

The positioning and stabilizing structure and/or the head-mounteddisplay unit may be configured to help distribute contact forces frommore sensitive regions of the user's face (forehead, upper cheeks belowthe eyes) to regions that are better suited to oppose a force applied.For example, the rear support structure may be sufficiently flexible toevenly and snugly engage the rear of the user's head, e.g., anchor onthe occipital bone but above the neck muscles, and/or have increasedrigidity in one or more portions to better support the load of thehead-mounted display unit in a comfortable and sustainable manner. Forexample, the rear support structure may be made of a strap material(e.g., textile) that is breathable and flexible to allow it to adjust tothe shape and/or size of the user's head, where certain parts of thestrap material may be rigidized and/or a rigid portion added (e.g.,sewn, laminated, clipped, inserted into a pocket, overmolded, and/orultrasonically welded into place) to help maintain stability and offseta portion of the force applied to a portion of the patient's face viathe head-mounted display unit.

In an example, the positioning and stabilizing structure and/or thehead-mounted display unit may be configured to cooperatively worktogether to reduce the force applied to the patient's forehead and/orcheek bones, by effectively transferring those forces to the rearsupport and/or to the at least one connector or strap(s), and/or bysimply distributing the forces from the head-mounted display unit moreevenly along the head-mounted display unit and/or the rear supportstructure and/or the at least one connector or strap(s). This is done ina way that adds comfort and/or stability, e.g., to prevent thehead-mounted unit from sliding down the user's face/forehead.

Another aspect of the present technology relates to a headmounted-display system or assembly including a positional andstabilising structure in any form described above, and a display unitconnected thereto.

Of course, portions of the aspects may form sub-aspects of the presenttechnology. Also, various ones of the sub-aspects and/or aspects may becombined in various manners and also constitute additional aspects orsub-aspects of the present technology.

Other features of the technology will be apparent from consideration ofthe information contained in the following detailed description,abstract, drawings and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present technology is illustrated by way of example, and not by wayof limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings, in whichlike reference numerals refer to similar elements including:

FIG. 1A is a side view of a head with several features of surfaceanatomy identified including otobasion superior and otobasion inferior.The approximate location of the Frankfort horizontal is indicated. Thecoronal plane is also indicated. Also indicated are the directionssuperior & inferior, and anterior & posterior.

FIG. 1B shows a front view of the bones of a skull including thefrontal, nasal and zygomatic bones.

FIG. 1C shows a lateral view of a skull with the outline of the surfaceof a head, as well as several muscles. Exemplary bones shown includefrontal, sphenoid, nasal, zygomatic, maxilla, mandible, parietal,temporal and occipital.

FIGS. 2A to 2C are respective side, front and top views of ahead-mounted display assembly in-use according to a first example of thepresent technology.

FIG. 2D is a cross-sectional view of a temporal arm of the head-mounteddisplay assembly of FIGS. 2A to 2C according to an example of thepresent technology.

FIG. 2E is a cross-sectional view of a temporal arm of the head-mounteddisplay assembly of FIGS. 2A to 2C according to another example of thepresent technology.

FIGS. 3A to 3C are respective side, front and top views of ahead-mounted display assembly in-use according to a second example ofthe present technology.

FIGS. 4A to 4C are respective side, front and top views of ahead-mounted display assembly in-use according to a third example of thepresent technology.

FIG. 5 is a side view of a head-mounted display assembly in-useaccording to a fourth example of the present technology.

FIGS. 6A to 6C are respective side, rear and top views of a head-mounteddisplay assembly in-use according to a variation of the fourth exampleof the present technology.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLES OF THE TECHNOLOGY

Before the present technology is described in further detail, it is tobe understood that the technology is not limited to the particularexamples described herein, which may vary. It is also to be understoodthat the terminology used in this disclosure is for the purpose ofdescribing only the particular examples discussed herein, and is notintended to be limiting.

The following description is provided in relation to various exampleswhich may share one or more common characteristics and/or features. Itis to be understood that one or more features of any one example may becombinable with one or more features of another example or otherexamples. In addition, any single feature or combination of features inany of the examples may constitute a further example.

FIGS. 2A to 2C show a support for a head-mounted display system orassembly 10 according to a first example of the present technology. Thehead-mounted display system 10 comprises a head-mounted display unit 12,and a positioning and stabilising structure 14 (also referred to as asupport and stabilising structure) to maintain or hold the display unit12 in an operational position over a user's face in use.

The display unit 12 includes a user interface structure 13 constructedand arranged to be in opposing relation with the user's face. The userinterface structure 13 extends about a display contained by the displayunit housing 22. The user interface structure 13 may extend about thedisplay and define a viewing opening to the display. The user interfacestructure 13 extends around the user's eyes, and may engage (e.g., lightsealing) with the user's face, e.g., along the user's nose, cheeksand/or forehead.

As described below, the head-mounted display system according toexamples of the present technology is structured and arranged to providea balanced system, i.e., not overly tight at any singular point alongthe user's head and/or face, while providing a perception of completesealing around the user's eyes, i.e., to provide complete immersion inthe use of virtual reality head-mounted displays. That is, thehead-mounted display system according to examples of the presenttechnology provides a more even fit that is structured and arranged todistribute pressure over more of the user's head to lessen hot spots orlocalised stress points.

Also, the head-mounted display system according to examples of thepresent technology comprises soft and flexible (e.g., elastic) materials(e.g., breathable material, e.g., textile-foam composite) structured andarranged to allow more conformity to the user's head and cushioning forcomfort. In addition, the head-mounted display system according toexamples of the present technology comprises simple adjustmentmechanisms to facilitate adjustment while on the user's head and allow awide fit range.

In the illustrated example of FIGS. 2A to 2C, the positioning andstabilising structure 14 comprises a rear support structure 16 (alsoreferred to as a rear support hoop) adapted to contact regions of auser's head (e.g., positionable at a crown of the user's head) and atleast one connector structured and arranged to interconnect the rearsupport structure 16 to the head-mounted display unit 12. In theillustrated example, the at least one connector comprises opposingtemporal connectors 18 disposed on respective sides of the user's headthat interconnect the rear support hoop 16 to respective posterior edgeregions 20 of the display unit housing 22 of the display unit 12, and aforehead support connector 24 that extends across the frontal bone ofthe user to interconnect the rear support hoop 16 with a superior edgeregion 21 of the display unit housing 22. However, it should beappreciated that more or less connectors may be provided to interconnectthe rear support structure 16 to the head-mounted display unit 12.

Each of the opposing temporal connectors 18 comprises a temporal arm 26.Each temporal arm 26 includes an anterior end 28 mounted to therespective posterior edge region 20 of the display unit housing 22 and aposterior end 30 that forms part of a releasable coupling to connect thetemporal arm 26 to the rear support hoop 16.

Each temporal arm 26 comprises a rigidiser 32, a textile component 34and a tab 36 arranged at the posterior end 30 for connecting to the rearsupport hoop 16. In an example, a portion of each of the temporal arms26, in-use, is in contact with a region of the user's head proximal tothe otobasion superior, i.e., above the user's ear. In an example, thetemporal arms 26 are arranged in-use to run generally along or parallelto the Frankfort Horizontal plane of the head and superior to thezygomatic bone, i.e., above the user's cheek bone.

In one form, the rigidiser 32 may be encapsulated within the textilecomponent 34 of each temporal arm 26. For example, FIG. 2D shows anexample of the textile component 34 in the form of a cover configured toencapsulate the rigidiser 32. In this example, the textile component 34includes a face contacting side arranged on one side of the rigidiser 32that can provide a soft, face contacting surface 35 adapted to contactthe patient's face in use. In some alternative forms, the rigidiser 32may be stitched or otherwise attached (e.g., overmolded) to the textilecomponent 34, or the textile component can be made of materials that canbe selectively rigidised by heat treatment (e.g., heat treatment). Forexample, FIG. 2E shows an example of the textile component 34 attachedto a face contacting side of the rigidiser 32 that can provide a soft,face contacting surface 35 adapted to contact the patient's face in use.In an example, the textile component 34 may comprise a textile materialor a textile-foam composite (e.g., breathable material, e.g.,multi-layered construction including an outer textile layer and an innerfoam layer) to provide a soft support for the rigidiser 32 to cushionagainst the user's head for optimised comfort. The rigidiser 32 canallow each temporal arm 26 to retain an in-use shape and configurationwhen not worn by a user. Advantageously, maintaining the temporal arms26 in the in-use state prior to use may prevent or limit distortionwhilst the user is donning the positioning and stabilising structure 14and allow a user to quickly fit or wear the display system 10.

In an example, the rigidiser 32 can be made from a rigid material, e.g.,hytrel (thermoplastic polyester elastomer). The rigid nature, i.e.,inextensibility, of the rigidiser 32 of each temporal arm 26 limits themagnitude of elongation or deformation of the temporal arm 26 whilein-use. Advantageously, this configuration enables a more effective,i.e., direct, translation of tension through the temporal arm 26.

In an example, the rigidiser 32 forms a lever-arm, i.e., a means topivot, about the rear support hoop 16. Advantageously, the rear supporthoop 16 can provide an anchor point for the positioning and stabilisingstructure 14. The rigidiser 32 may articulate about the anchor point ofthe rear support hoop 16 to enable the forehead support connector 24 toraise or lower the position of the display unit 12 relative to theuser's nose. Advantageously, this configuration can minimise themagnitude of clamping pressure to stabilise the display unit 12 on theuser's head.

In an example, the thickness and/or width of the temporal arm 26 mayvary along at least a portion of its length, e.g., temporal arm 26 mayinclude wider and thinner sections along its length to facilitateconnection and to distribute load.

In the illustrated example, the rear support structure or hoop 16 is inthe form of a hoop having a ring-like form (similar to the ring-likeform of rear support hoop 316 shown in the FIG. 6B example) and isarranged to have a three-dimensional contour curve to fit or conform tothe shape of the rear of the user's head, e.g., a user's crown. The rearsupport hoop 16 comprises a parietal portion or parietal strap portion38, adapted to be in proximity to the parietal bone of the user's headin use, and an occipital portion or occipital strap portion 40, adaptedto be in proximity to the occipital bone of the user's head in use. Inan example, the occipital portion 40 is preferably arranged along aportion of the occipital bone in use, e.g., along a portion of theoccipital bone adjacent or near a junction where the neck musclesattach, and the parietal portion 38 is preferably arranged rearward ofthe coronal plane in use. In an example, the occipital portion 40 isadapted to be positioned along a portion of the occipital bone justabove a junction where the neck muscles attach to the occipital bone.The junction may also be referred to as the external occipitalprotuberance (EOP). However, the exact location of the occipital portion40 on the user's head may vary depending on the size and shape of theuser's head with which it is being used, e.g., the occipital portion 40may be positioned adjacent to, just above, or just below a portion ofthe occipital bone where the neck muscles attach. In an example, theoccipital portion 40 may be arranged beneath or underneath the occipitalbone near the junction where the neck muscles attach. This hoop-likearrangement (e.g., circular or ovular or part circular/oval or C-shaped)of the rear support hoop 16 anchors the positioning and stabilisingstructure 14 around the rear or rear bump of the user's head, whichprovides an effective support structure to hold weight (i.e., thedisplay unit) at the front of the user's head. The rear support hoop 16may be formed from an elastic material, which elasticity may be used tostretch the hoop and securely hold the rear support hoop 16 in position.

The rear support hoop 16 further comprises opposing connection straps ortabs 42. The straps 42 are adjustable and operate to change the distancebetween the rear support hoop 16 and the display unit housing 22 of thedisplay unit 12. Each of the straps 42, in use, is threaded through aneyelet 44 in the tab 36 of a respective temporal arm 26. The length ofeach strap 42 through the tab 36 of a respective temporal connector 18may be adjusted by pulling more or less of the strap 42 through arespective eyelet 44. The strap 42 may be secured to itself afterpassing through the eyelet 44 in the tab 36, for example, withhook-and-loop fastening means, which allows fine or micro adjustment ofthe straps for comfort and fit (e.g., tightness). Therefore, thedistance between the rear support hoop 16 and the display unit housing22 may be adjusted to fit around different head sizes. Such adjustablestrap arrangement also allows adjustment while the system is on theuser's head, e.g., user can pull straps 42 to posteriorly tighten.

In an example, the thickness and/or width of the rear support hoop 16and/or the straps 42 may vary along at least a portion of its length.For example, the rear support loop 16 may include wider and thinnersections along its length, e.g., wider sections adjacent the straps 42to facilitate connection to the temporal arms 26 and to distribute load.Also the straps 42 may be thinner along it free end to facilitatethreading through the eyelet 44 in the respective temporal arm 26.

In an example, the rear support hoop 16 is orientated in a generallyvertical direction, i.e., arranged in a vertical plane generallyparallel to the coronal plane. This arrangement of the rear support hoop16 appropriately orients the rear support hoop 16 at the crown of theuser's head to support the transverse, i.e., horizontal, tension appliedby the connection straps 42 and support the weight of the display unit12, in-use, at the anterior of the user's head.

The rear support hoop 16 and connection straps 42 may be formed from anelastic and/or textile material to assist conforming to the shape of auser's head, e.g. rear support hoop 16 and connection straps 42 providestretch capacity. Also, such elastic material at the back of the user'shead may allow easier lifting of the display unit 12 away from theuser's face in use, e.g., move the display unit 12 away from the user'seyes to talk to someone while the positioning and stabilising structure14 remains on the user's head. For example, the support hoop 16 may be aneoprene material, or other textile-foam composite (e.g., breathablematerial, e.g., multi-layered construction including at an outer textilelayer and an inner foam layer), or spacer fabric. Advantageously,textiles can provide a soft support structure to stabilise the displayunit 12 on a user's head and allow the positioning and stabilisingstructure 14 to cushion against the user's head for optimised comfort.

The forehead support connector 24 of the positioning and stabilisingstructure 14 comprises a forehead support strap 48 arranged to rungenerally along or parallel to the sagittal plane of the user's head.The forehead support strap 48 is adapted to connect between the superioredge region 21 of the display unit housing 22 and the parietal portion38 of the rear support hoop 16. In an example, the strap 48 can benon-adjustably connected, e.g., welded, to the parietal portion 38, andthe strap 48 can be adjustably connected to the display unit housing 22by an adjustment mechanism 50.

The forehead support strap 48 is adjustable to enable dimensionalcontrol of the forehead support connector 24. As best shown in FIG. 2C,an end portion or tab portion 54 of the forehead support strap 48, inuse, is threaded through a forehead support hole 52 in the superior edgeregion 21 of the display unit 12. The forehead support strap 48 may besecured to itself after passing through the hole 52 in the display unit12, for example, with hook-and-loop fastening means, which allows fineor micro adjustment of the straps for comfort and fit (e.g., tightness).In an example, the forehead support strap 48 may comprise a similarmaterial to rear support hoop 16 and/or the connection straps 42, e.g.,textile-foam composite (e.g., breathable material, e.g., multi-layeredconstruction including at an outer textile layer and an inner foamlayer).

The forehead support connector 24 supports the weight of the displayunit 12. The length of the forehead support strap 48 between thesuperior edge region 21 of the display unit 12 and the parietal portion38 of the rear support hoop 16 may be adjusted by pulling more or lessof the strap 48 through the hole 52. Therefore, the forehead supportstrap 48 is able to be adjusted to raise or lower the position of thedisplay unit 12 relative to the user's nose, e.g., adjust to angle orlift the display unit 12 relative to the user's face. Advantageously,this adjustment can move the display unit housing 22 away from theuser's nose to relieve pressure felt on the face, nose, and/or cheeks.The forehead support connector 24 secures the display unit 12 inposition so that the display unit does not slide downwards or laterallyon the user's head.

In an example, the thickness and/or width of the forehead support strap48 may vary along at least a portion of its length, e.g., foreheadsupport strap 48 may include wider and thinner sections along its lengthto facilitate connection and to distribute load.

In an example, the adjustment mechanism 50 is positioned, in use, out ofcontact with a user's frontal bone region.

In an alternative example, the positioning and stabilising structure 14does not include a forehead support connector 24/forehead support strap48, e.g., see example of FIGS. 4A to 4C.

FIGS. 3A to 3C show a support for a head-mounted display system orassembly 110 according to a second example of the present technology. InFIGS. 3A to 3C, like reference numerals denote similar or like parts toFIGS. 2A to 2C with the addition of 100 to allow distinguishing betweenexamples, e.g., display unit 112, user interface structure 113,positioning and stabilizing structure 114, rear support hoop 116,temporal connector 118, posterior edge region 120, display unit housing122, forehead support connector 124, temporal arm 126, parietal portion138, occipital portion 140, connection straps 142, forehead supportstrap 148, adjustment mechanism 150, forehead support hole 152, endportion 154. Referring to FIG. 3C, the forehead support connector 124may further comprise a forehead support rigidiser 156. The foreheadsupport rigidiser 156 can provide further stabilisation and support forthe display unit 112 above the user's nose and cheeks, i.e., relievepressure on the user's nose and cheeks. The forehead support rigidiser156 can be connected to the superior edge region 121 and form at leastpart of the forehead support hole 152 to receive an end portion or tabportion 154 of the forehead support strap 148 for dimensional adjustmentof the positioning and stabilising structure 114. As illustrated theforehead support strap 148 is arranged beneath the forehead supportrigidiser 156 for comfort and load distribution.

In some forms, the adjustment mechanism 150 may further comprise anangle adjustment mechanism (not shown) for easy lifting of the visorfrom an in-use position to a stowed position, i.e., not in-use.

In an example, the system may be structured and arranged to redistributeone or more components from the display unit to the positioning andstabilizing structure, e.g., to redistribute weight from the displayunit to the positioning and stabilizing structure. For example, theforehead support rigidiser 156 and/or forehead support strap 148 may beused to at least partially support one or more non-location essentialelectrical components, e.g., batteries, hard drive storage, to shiftweight from the front of the user's head to a more central location,i.e., to counterbalance weight of the display unit. In alternativeexamples, one or more components from the display unit may be at leastpartially supported by the rear support hoop 116 and/or temporalconnectors 118 to redistribute weight.

FIGS. 4A to 4C show a support for a head-mounted display system orassembly 210 according to a third example of the present technology. InFIGS. 4A to 4C, like reference numerals denote similar or like parts toFIGS. 2A to 2C with the addition of 200 to allow distinguishing betweenexamples, e.g., display unit 212, user interface structure 213,positioning and stabilizing structure 214, rear support hoop 216,temporal connector 218, posterior edge region 220, display unit housing222, temporal arm 226, parietal portion 238, occipital portion 240,connection straps 242. In the third example, the support for ahead-mounted display assembly 210 does not comprise a forehead support,i.e., the display unit 212 is supported by a positioning and stabilizingstructure 214 without any forehead support connector or forehead supportstraps.

FIG. 5 shows a support for a head-mounted display system or assembly 310according to a fourth example of the present technology. In FIG. 5 ,like reference numerals denote similar or like parts to FIGS. 2A to 2Cwith the addition of 300 to allowing distinguishing between examples,e.g., display unit 312, user interface structure 313, positioning andstabilizing structure 314, rear support hoop 316, temporal connector318, display unit housing 322, forehead support connector 324, temporalarm 326, rigidiser 332, parietal portion 338, occipital portion 340,forehead support strap 348. In the fourth example, the support for ahead-mounted display system 310 comprises opposing temporal connectors318 each having a temporal arm 326 with an extended rigidiser 358. Eachextended rigidiser 358 may extend from the respective temporal arm 326to the rear support hoop 316 to enhance support of the display unit 312,in use. Each extended rigidiser 358 may extend along a portion of therear support hoop 316 and may extend into one or both of the parietalportion 338 and the occipital portion 340. For example, each extendedrigidiser 358 may comprise a Y-shaped form as shown in FIG. 5 thatextends into both the parietal portion 338 and the occipital portion340. Alternatively, each extended rigidiser 358 may only extend into oneof the parietal portion 338 and the occipital portion 340, e.g., onlyextend along the occipital portion 340 as shown in FIG. 6A discussedbelow. In the example of FIG. 5 , the parietal and occipital portions ofthe extended arms of the rigidiser 358 are provided along the parietalportion 338 and occipital portion 340 of the rear support hoop 316positioned proximal to the parietal and occipital bones of the user'shead to support respective portions of the rear support hoop 316.

The extended rigidisers 358 increase the length of the temporalconnectors 318 so as to increase the lever-arm moment created about therear support hoop 316. In use, the larger lever-arm extends the momentof inertia further rearward of the user's head when compared the firstand second examples. Advantageously, this can provide more comfort tothe user by decreasing the tension applied to the forehead supportconnector 324 to support the display unit 312.

Additionally, the extended arms of the rigidiser 358 may provide a moreeven distribution of pressure on the user's head under the weight of thedisplay unit 312 and any clamping force applied by tension induced inthe positioning and stabilising structure 314.

The extended arms of the rigidiser 358 can help prevent the rear supporthoop 316 of the positioning and stabilising structure 314 fromtranslating vertically upwards on the user's head when tensioning theforehead support connector 324. The extended arms of the rigidiser 358can more effectively secure the occipital portion 340 of the rearsupport hoop 316 along the corresponding occipital bone (e.g., along aportion of the occipital bone adjacent a junction where the neck musclesattach to the occipital bone) of the user's head.

FIGS. 6A to 6C show a variation of the fourth example in FIG. 5 . Inthis example, each of the temporal arms 326 comprises a biased extendedrigidiser 360. Each biased extended rigidiser 360 may extend from therespective temporal arm 326 to the occipital portion 340 of the rearsupport hoop 316, i.e., to generally take a J-shaped form, so as toenhance support of the display unit 312, in use.

The biased extended rigidisers 360 extend along a portion of theoccipital bone, e.g., along a portion of the occipital bone adjacent ajunction where the neck muscles attach to the occipital bone, tosecurely anchor the positioning and stabilising structure 314 so as tosupport the display unit 312 above the user's nose and cheek.

As best shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, medial and temporal adjustmentmechanisms 362, 364 may be provided to the temporal arms 326 and thebiased extended rigidisers 360. The medial adjustment mechanism 362 canbe mounted about the medial region of the occipital portion betweenopposed arms of the biased extended rigidisers 360. In an example, themedial adjustment mechanism 362 may be in the form of a strap threadedthrough opposing holes 363 in respective posterior ends 368 of theopposing arms of the biased extended rigidisers 360 (see FIG. 6B). Thedistance between the opposing arms of the rigidisers 360 can becontrolled by pulling more or less of the strap 362 through the holes363.

The temporal adjustment mechanism 364 can be disposed on the temporalarm 326, along the temporal region of the user's head. The temporaladjustment mechanism 364 can be adjustable and operate to change thedistance between the biased extended rigidisers 360 and the display unithousing 322.

The above-described head-mounted display systems provide alternativeexamples of the present technology structured and arranged to enhancecomfort, fit range, usability, system architecture, use in a medicalenvironment, and manufacturability.

The head-mounted display systems according to examples of the presenttechnology provide enhanced comfort with minimised facial markings andpain from prolonged use. For example, comfort may be achieved byproviding universal load distribution in which load is optimised on allcontact surfaces by avoiding or minimising load on areas prone todiscomfort and redistributing this load to areas able to comfortablybare the load, e.g., avoid or minimise load on the nasal bridge andsides of the nose and apply or redistribute this load to the top and/orrear of the head. Also, comfort may be achieved by providing regionalload distribution in which load is evenly distributed by design andmaterial selection in regions of the face where contact is unavoidable,e.g., contact points around the eyes may comprise compliant materialsthat evenly distribute load and avoid pain points/facial marking. Inaddition, comfort may be achieved by minimising weight as less weight inthe overall system leads to less tension to position and maintain thesystem in the right configuration. In this regard, the head-mounteddisplay systems according to examples of the present technology providea minimalist design (e.g., low profile) to achieve fit range, comfort,and correct configuration, e.g., componentry optimised to minimize sizeand number of components to achieve function and use of robust andlightweight materials.

The head-mounted display systems according to examples of the presenttechnology provide enhanced fit range or universal fit without tradingoff comfort, usability and cost. For example, fit range may be achievedby providing adjustability with geometry and material selection andadjustment mechanism. The components of the positioning and stabilisingstructure are designed and materials may be selected to provide desiredforce versus displacement, e.g., straps may stretch to a desired lengthunder a predetermined force. The adjustment mechanism providessimplicity as sizing of the positioning and stabilising structure andassociated straps may be manually adjusted and set, and componentry canbe minimised while maximising ease of use, e.g., single handedadjustment of straps and alternative use of magnetic clips forconnection. Also, the adjustment mechanism provides minimal size andweight which reduces the bulk of adjustment mechanisms with optimalmaterials and minimal components. Further, enhanced fit range may beachieved by anthropometrics in which adjustment range may be designed tofit the optimal anthropometric range of the desired market.

The head-mounted display systems according to examples of the presenttechnology provide enhanced usability with low-touch simple set upsolutions and low dexterity threshold solutions. For example, low-touchset up may be achieved with self-adjusting solutions includingstretchable materials or simple mechanical actuation where only a fewminor adjustments may be necessary for correct fit. Also, the system mayinclude adjust and lock solutions to facilitate usability (i.e., set andforget), e.g., mechanisms to guide adjustment (e.g., magnets) andlocking mechanisms to set adjustment (e.g., clips). Further, the systemprovides ease of use so that it is capable of adjustment when worn by auser with low-dexterity and/or minimal vision.

The head-mounted display systems according to examples of the presenttechnology provide enhanced system architecture which optimisescomponentry location such that it minimises cost while maximisingcomfort, fit range and usability. For example, the system may provideenhanced weight distribution in which electrical and/or mechanicalcomponents are positioned in ideal locations from a comfort perspective.Also, the system may comprise modularity such that components may beselected or upgraded based on user preference, e.g., electricalcomponent, face contacting cushions, straps, and/or ear buds may beselected based on preference.

The head-mounted display systems according to examples of the presenttechnology enhance use in a medical environment. For example, the systemmay be biocompatible and/or cleanable with materials selected that arecleanable for re-use in a medical environment and/or passbiocompatibility requirements.

The head-mounted display systems according to examples of the presenttechnology enhance manufacturability by providing mass produciblesolutions at low cost while maintaining high quality and functionality.

In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of examplesof the present technology, except where the context requires otherwisedue to express language or necessary implication, the word “comprise” orvariations such as “comprises” or “comprising” is used in an inclusivesense, i.e., to specify the presence of the stated features but not topreclude the presence or addition of further features in variousexamples of the present technology.

Although the technology herein has been described with reference toparticular examples, it is to be understood that these examples aremerely illustrative of the principles and applications of thetechnology. In some instances, the terminology and symbols may implyspecific details that are not required to practice the technology. Forexample, although the terms “first” and “second” may be used, unlessotherwise specified, they are not intended to indicate any order but maybe utilised to distinguish between distinct elements or examples.Furthermore, although process steps in the methodologies may bedescribed or illustrated in an order, such an ordering is not required.Those skilled in the art will recognize that such ordering may bemodified and/or aspects thereof may be conducted concurrently or evensynchronously.

It is therefore to be understood that numerous modifications may be madeto the illustrative examples and that other arrangements may be devisedwithout departing from the spirit and scope of the technology.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

Feature Item Number head-mounted display system 10 display unit 12 userinterface structure 13 positioning and stabilising structure 14 rearsupport hoop 16 temporal connectors 18 posterior edge region 20 superioredge region 21 display unit housing 22 forehead support connector 24temporal arm 26 anterior end 28 posterior end 30 rigidiser 32 textilecomponent 34 face contacting surface 35 tab 36 parietal portion 38occipital portion 40 connection straps 42 eyelet 44 forehead supportstrap 48 adjustment mechanism 50 forehead support hole 52 tab portion 54head-mounted display system 110 display unit 112 user interfacestructure 113 positioning and stabilising structure 114 rear supporthoop 116 temporal connector 118 posterior edge region 120 superior edgeregion 121 display unit housing 122 forehead support connector 124temporal arm 126 parietal portion 138 occipital portion 140 connectionstraps 142 forehead support strap 148 adjustment mechanism 150 foreheadsupport hole 152 tab portion 154 forehead support rigidiser 156head-mounted display system 210 display unit 212 user interfacestructure 213 positioning and stabilising structure 214 rear supporthoop 216 temporal connector 218 posterior edge region 220 display unithousing 222 temporal arm 226 parietal portion 238 occipital portion 240connection straps 242 head-mounted display system 310 display unit 312user interface structure 313 positioning and stabilising structure 314rear support hoop 316 temporal connectors 318 temporal connector 318display unit housing 322 forehead support connector 324 temporal arm 326rigidiser 332 parietal portion 338 occipital portion 340 foreheadsupport strap 348 extended rigidiser 358 biased extended rigidiser 360medial adjustment mechanism 362 holes 363 temporal adjustment mechanism364 posterior ends 368

1. A head-mounted display system, comprising: a head-mounted displayunit; and a positioning and stabilising structure structured andarranged to hold the head-mounted display unit in an operationalposition over a user's face in use, the positioning and stabilisingstructure comprising: a rear support structure adapted to contactposterior regions of a user's head, and a forehead support connectorincluding a forehead support strap that extends generally along and inthe direction of the user's sagittal plane and connects the rear supportstructure to a superior edge region of the head-mounted display unit;wherein the forehead support connector further comprises a foreheadsupport rigidiser for providing rigidification to a portion of theforehead support connector.
 2. The head-mounted display system of claim1, wherein the forehead support rigidiser is angularly and/ortranslationally adjustable relative to the forehead support strap. 3.The head-mounted display system of claim 1, wherein the forehead supportstrap is flexible along at least a portion of its length and theforehead support rigidiser extends along a majority of the foreheadsupport strap, and wherein the forehead support rigidiser limitsflexibility of the forehead support strap.
 4. The head-mounted displaysystem of claim 1, wherein the rear support structure and/or theforehead support connector comprises a textile material configured toconform to the user's head.
 5. The head-mounted display system of claim4, wherein the textile material is an outer layer, and wherein the rearsupport structure and/or the forehead support connector further comprisean inner foam layer surrounded by the textile material.
 6. Thehead-mounted display system of claim 1, wherein the rear supportstructure and/or the forehead support connector comprises a textile-foamcomposite configured to conform to the user's head.
 7. The head-mounteddisplay system of claim 1, wherein a thickness and/or width of theforehead support varies along at least a portion of its length between aparietal portion of the rear support structure and the superior edgeregion of the head-mounted display unit, wherein the parietal portion isconfigured to contact the user's head and overlay the user's parietalbones.
 8. The head-mounted display system of claim 1, wherein theforehead support connector is non-adjustably connected to a parietalportion of the rear support structure, wherein the parietal portion isconfigured to contact the user's head and overlay the user's parietalbones.
 9. The head-mounted display system of claim 1, wherein theforehead support connector includes an end portion that is selectivelythreaded through a forehead support hole on the head-mounted displayunit to adjustably connect the forehead support connector to thehead-mounted display unit.
 10. The head-mounted display system of claim9, wherein the forehead support rigidiser is connected to the superioredge region and forms at least part of the forehead support hole toselectively receive the end portion of the forehead support connectorfor dimensional adjustment of the positioning and stabilising structure.11. The head-mounted display system of claim 1, wherein the foreheadsupport strap is arranged beneath the forehead support rigidiser forcomfort and load distribution.
 12. The head-mounted display system ofclaim 1, wherein the forehead support rigidiser provides rigidificationto a portion of the forehead support connector located proximate to thesuperior edge region and is configured to be located at a frontalportion of the user's head.
 13. The head-mounted display system of claim1, further comprising an electrical component configured to communicatewith the head-mounted display unit, and wherein the forehead supportrigidiser at least partially supports the electrical component.
 14. Ahead-mounted display system, comprising: a head-mounted display unit;and a positioning and stabilising structure structured and arranged tohold the head-mounted display unit in an operational position over auser's face in use, the positioning and stabilising structurecomprising: a rear support structure adapted to contact posteriorregions of a user's head; and a pair of connecting straps connected tothe rear support structure and configured to adjust a distance betweenthe rear support structure and the head-mounted display unit; whereinthe rear support structure and the pair of connecting straps are atleast partially formed from an elastic material.
 15. The head-mounteddisplay system of claim 14, further comprising a forehead supportconnector configured to extend generally along and in the direction ofthe user's sagittal plane and connect between the rear support structureto the head-mounted display unit and a superior edge region of thehead-mounted display unit.
 16. The head-mounted display system of claim15, wherein the rear support structure and/or the forehead supportconnector comprises a textile material configured to conform to theuser's head.
 17. The head-mounted display system of claim 15, wherein athickness and/or width of the forehead support varies along at least aportion of its length between a parietal portion of the rear supportstructure and the superior edge region of the head-mounted display unit,the parietal portion is configured to contact the user's head andoverlay the user's parietal bones.
 18. The head-mounted display systemof claim 15, wherein the forehead support connector includes an endportion that is selectively threaded through a forehead support hole onthe head-mounted display unit to adjustably connect the forehead supportconnector to the head-mounted display unit.
 19. The head-mounted displaysystem of claim 14, wherein the rear support structure includes a hoophaving an occipital portion and a parietal portion, wherein the hoop isconfigured to stretch in a self-adjusting manner to conform to a shapeof the user's head as a result of stretchability provided by the elasticmaterial.
 20. The head-mounted display system of claim 19, wherein thepair of connecting straps are disposed between the occipital portion andthe parietal portion.